Refinishing metal cabinets can update the look of your kitchen or bathroom. With some preparation and effort, you can give your old cabinets a fresh new finish. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to refinish metal cabinets.
What You’ll Need
Before starting this project, gather all the necessary supplies:
- Paint stripper or chemical stripper to remove old paint and finishes
- Painters tape for masking and protecting surfaces
- TSP or other degreaser to clean and prepare the metal surface
- Sandpaper in various grits to sand and scuff the metal (120, 220 grit)
- Tack cloth for removing dust between sanding
- Rags, paintbrushes, and paint tray for applying primer and paint
- Metal primer specifically formulated for metal surfaces
- Topcoat paint in your desired sheen and color
- Painters caulk to fill any holes or gaps if needed
- Drop cloths to protect floors and surroundings
Make sure you have proper safety gear like gloves, face mask, and goggles. Work in a well-ventilated area.
Step 1: Remove Existing Finishes
The first step is to strip off any existing paint, sealers, oils or finishes from the metal cabinets. This allows the new paint to properly adhere.
Read and follow the product instructions for your paint stripper. Apply a thick layer of stripper evenly across the surface. Allow it to sit for the recommended time, then scrape off the bubbled finish with a putty knife. Steel wool or sandpaper can help remove any leftover residue.
Be sure to work in a well-ventilated area and use heavy duty gloves, since many strippers contain harsh chemicals. Wipe the cabinets clean with a degreaser like TSP once stripping is complete.
Step 2: Clean and Sand the Metal
Thoroughly clean and sand the stripped metal to prepare it for priming and painting.
Wipe down all surfaces with TSP or another degreaser to remove any dirt, oil or grease. This helps the paint adhere properly. Rinse with clean water and let the metal fully dry.
Next, sand the metal cabinets to scuff up and roughen the surface. This gives the primer and paint something to grip onto. Use 120-220 grit sandpaper, always sanding in the direction of the metal grain.
Sand until you expose bare metal. Pay close attention to any pitted or rough areas. Vacuum and wipe away all dust with a tack cloth when finished sanding.
Step 3: Fill Holes and Gaps
Inspect the cabinets for any screw holes, gaps, or imperfections that need filling in. Use a painters caulk to fill any holes or cracks for a smooth finish.
Wipe away any excess caulk and let dry fully. Sand any caulked areas lightly once dry. This ensures the primer and paint will glide on smoothly.
Step 4: Apply Primer
Now you’re ready to apply a metal primer. Primer is essential for metal surfaces, as it provides maximum adhesion and corrosion resistance.
Use a high-quality metal primer specifically designed for metal. Stir the primer well before using. Apply two thin, even coats allowing proper dry time between coats. Add more coats if needed until you achieve full coverage.
Be patient and allow the primer to fully cure overnight before painting. Proper priming is the key to a long-lasting finish.
Step 5: Paint the Cabinets
Once primed, you can paint the cabinets in your desired color. For metal, you’ll want to use a durable alkyd or oil-based enamel paint. These provide a hard, glossy finish that holds up over time.
Before painting, lightly sand the primer with 220 grit sandpaper to roughen it up. This helps the paint bond tightly. Wipe away any dust.
Use a high-quality brush to apply two or more thin coats of paint, allowing each coat to fully dry before adding another. Add additional coats until you achieve full coverage.
Let the cabinets cure for several days before use. The paint needs time to fully harden.
Step 6: Reinstall Cabinets and Hardware
After several days of curing time, you can reinstall your refinished metal cabinets! Replace all hardware like hinges, handles and knobs.
Use painters caulk to fill any gaps between cabinets and walls. Let dry and smooth with sandpaper before using the cabinets again.
Tips for Success
- Proper prep work like cleaning and sanding is vital for good adhesion
- Always use metal-specific primers and paints formulated for metal
- Apply thin coats and allow proper drying time between coats
- Cooler temperatures and higher humidity can prolong dry times
- Lightly sand between coats for maximum smoothness
- Be patient and let paint fully cure for several days before use
- Work in a clean, dust-free area for best results
With proper products and techniques, you can give dated metal cabinets a fresh new look! Just take your time and follow each step carefully. Refinished metal cabinets can really transform the look of a kitchen or bathroom.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of paint should I use on metal cabinets?
For metal cabinets, always use paint specifically formulated for metal surfaces. Oil-based alkyd enamels provide the most durable, hardest finish. Latex paints won’t adhere as well or be as long-lasting.
Can I paint over rust?
No, rust should be removed before painting metal. Use a wire brush, sandpaper or rust remover to get rid of rust. Prime and paint metal surfaces as soon as possible to prevent future rust.
What sheen of paint is best?
Semi-gloss or high-gloss enamels provide the most durable finish for metal cabinets. Higher sheens show less wear over time. Satin or matte finishes will scratch and scuff more easily.
Do I need to sand before priming?
Lightly sanding provides the best adhesion for primer and paint. Always wipe away dust before priming. For heavy flaking or peeling paint, more extensive stripping and sanding may be needed.
How long does it take for the paint to cure?
Oil-based paint on metal cabinets needs 5-7 days to fully cure and harden. Do not scrub or clean the cabinets during this time. Allow several weeks before placing any heavy items in refinished cabinets.
Conclusion
Refinishing metal cabinets takes some work, but can give a dated kitchen or bathroom a fresh new look. With proper preparation, priming and painting, you can achieve professional-looking results. Always use metal-specific paint products and allow proper cure times. Approach the project with patience, and you’ll be rewarded with beautiful updated cabinets.